An Independent Medical Evaluation (IME) or Independent Psychological Evaluation (IPE) is an objective, third-party assessment conducted by a licensed psychologist to resolve specific questions related to legal, insurance, disability, or administrative matters.
These evaluations are typically requested by attorneys (plaintiff or defense), insurance carriers, workers’ compensation boards, or administrative bodies when an impartial, evidence-based professional opinion is required.
Depending on the referral question, the evaluation addresses issues such as diagnosis, psychological injury, functional impairment, disability status, treatment recommendations, and the direct impact of mental health symptoms on an individual’s daily and occupational functioning.
Unlike clinical therapy, the sole purpose of an IME or IPE is to provide an objective, forensic evaluation rather than ongoing treatment or clinical care.
The evaluation assesses the presence of psychological conditions, symptom severity, and the overall impact of these symptoms on the individual's psychological functioning.
A primary focus of many independent evaluations is understanding how psychological symptoms objectively restrict or limit an individual's ability to perform daily, academic, or occupational activities.
Depending on the referral question, the evaluation assesses how psychological symptoms impact an individual’s broad capacity to work, their eligibility for disability benefits, or their readiness to return to the workforce.
The evaluation reviews past treatment history, response to interventions, future clinical needs, and the expected course of recovery over time.
The psychologist conducts detailed, structured interviews focused on the individual’s background, medical and mental health history, current symptoms, and the specific events or issues prompting the evaluation.
Need to refer someone for an evaluation? Submit a referral and our team will help with the next steps.